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” is a laymen’s term for the clinical one: aphthous ulcers. Many people are afflicted with a canker sore here and there. Others end up dealing with the often shockingly painful little lesions on a chronic basis. Causes of canker sores are often debated, but the fact remains that if you harbor frequent painful bumps in your mouth, you’d probably really like a solution to the uncomfortable problem.

What are Cancker Sores?

How would you describe a canker sore? Most people concur that aphthous ulcers create a discomfort describable as burning. One in three people have had a canker sore at some point, so there is a good chance that you or someone in your family deals with the painful bumps. The good news about aphthous ulcers is that in most cases, they require no treatment – they heal on their own. For people who experience frequent recurrences, or almost always seem to have multiple ulcers in their mouth, some medical intervention is usually necessary. Andreas Altenberg co-authored a study looking at the current therapeutic remedies for aphthous ulcers which was published in Dtsch Arztebl Int (2014). 111: 665-73.

Preventing Canker Sores

The bad news is that preventive medicine is still not known for canker sores. Patients must already be symptomatic in order to receive any type of treatment that might help. At that point in time, introducing the ulcer to a topical ointment prescribed by a dentist or general physician can help with the discomfort and duration, though it won’t “cure” the canker sore. To put a stop to getting canker sores, some people find that avoiding acidic and very salty foods as well as carbonated beverages can help. Also, make sure you are not deficient in folic acid and vitamin B12. Stress could be a factor, as well as the toothpaste you use. Try seeking a specialized toothpaste which does not have SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) as an ingredient.

Visit your Riverside Dentists

Do you have recurrent sores or lesions in your mouth?  If you would like to arrange a consultation, call our 92504 dentist office at (951) 689-5031 for all of your comprehensive dental care needs.